Exam boards could be asked to avoid using “complex language” such as colloquialisms, sarcasm and idioms in assessments to make them more accessible for pupils.
The exams regulator in England, Ofqual, has published draft guidance to try to remove ways in which pupils can be “unfairly disadvantaged by irrelevant features”, making it harder to determine their knowledge, skills and understanding.
The moves, widely criticised by many who fear they ‘dumb down’ exams, would benefit children with neurodivergence such as autism and dyslexia, as well as visually and hearing impaired children, and children with English as a second language. Read more here.